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1992-01-10 Budget Work Session ~ MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 768 . ASSEMBLY The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners held a Budget Work Session on Friday, January 10, 1992, at 12:00 noon in Room 501 of the County Administration Building, 320 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Members present were: Commissioners Jonathan Barfield, Sr.; Fred Retchin; William H. Sutton; Vice-Chairman Robert G. Greer; Chairman E. L. Mathews, Jr.; County Manager, Allen O'Neal; County Attorney, Robert W. Pope; and Clerk to the Board, Lucie F. Harrell. Chairman Mathews called the meeting to order. RECEIPT OF R. W. BECK REPORT - WASTE-TO-ENERGY FACILITY Chairman Mathews announced that the R. W. Beck Report has been received with copies of the report mailed to members of the Waste- to-Energy Advisory Committee as of this date. In order for all persons to receive the report at the same time, the report will be distributed to the Commissioners after the Budget Work Session. Chairman Mathews recommended allowing ample time for the members of the Waste-to-Energy Advisory Committee to review the report and forward comments to the Board of County Commissioners before discussing this item. . AUTHORIZATION FOR NEW HANOVER COUNTY TO PARTICIPATE IN A DRUG PREVENTION PROGRAM WITH THE CITY OF DURHAM AND DURHAM COUNTY County Manager O'Neal reported on a meeting attended by he and Commissioner Barfield with City and County officials of Durham. The City of Durham and Durham County are 99% sure of receiving federal funds to perform a 5-year survey on the causes of drug abuse and prevention efforts. In order to receive funds, a similar county must be identified and express its willingness to participate in the survey. New Hanover County has been selected as the comparable County; therefore, the Commissioners are requested to authorize the Chairman to write a letter indicating the County's interest. Commissioner Barfield stated the meeting was most informative and recommended County participation in the survey. Motion: Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Barfield to participate in the program and authorize the Chairman ~ to write a letter. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. . PROGRESS REPORT ON DOWNSIZING Director of Human Resources, Andre' Mallette, stated as of January 8, 1992, forty-nine positions (49) have been targeted for elimination with a total savings of $986,406. Of the thirty-four (34) county departments, positions or portions of positions have been eliminated in thirteen (13) departments. Other departments have until February 3, 1992, to submit their proposals for downsizing. He stated the figure of $986,406 should be reduced by approximately $135,000 since positions at the Waste-to-Energy Facility, in the amount of $35,000, are included in this figure, but are not in the general fund; and an additional $100,000 of revenue will be received from the State for operation of the Juvenile Services Center 'until July 1, 1992, reducing the total cost savings to approximately $830,000. commissioner Barfield commented on the downsizing plan and cautioned against promoting employees into higher ranges when implementing the downsizing process. Commissioner Sutton stated remarks have been made to him that downsizing is occurring at the lower salary range with no positions being eliminated from the administrative or upper salary range. He cautioned having to many administrative or upper management j ( f I \ MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, .JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 769 employees without enough medium or lower level employees to properly render County services. Director Mallette stated the positions eliminated to date are vacant positions that have not been filled. It has not been necessary to eliminate filled positions at this point. Under the current downsizing plan, when a position becomes vacant, a request to fill the vacancy is submitted by the Department Head to the Management Team. The Management Team then analyzes the position and decides whether to refill or eliminate the position. If the position is eliminated, the department is requested to restructure its organization to adequately handle the workload and provide the necessary services. () Discussion of Retirement Incentive Package A Retirement Incentive Package was created with 15 employees eligible to accept the package as part of the downsizing plan. To date, it appears that 14 of the 15 eligible employees will accept the package. The cost for the Retirement Incentive Package will equal a pay-out of $233,741 with an annual supplement of $26,583 for insurance premiums should all fifteen employees choose to accept the plan. County Manager O'Neal expressed satisfaction with the downsizing plan which began in October 1991 and to date has eliminated 49 positions without having to layoff employees. He emphasized the importance of continuing the stringent review process of filling vacant positions in order to avoid being in the same situation two or three years later. commissioner Barfield commented on the delivery of services with the reduced workforce and stated Staff should carefully monitor the quality of services being rendered versus the number of employees stating in some instances, the positions may be needed. () Discussion of Entitlement Programs County Manager O'Neal commented on mandated programs over which the County has no control and reported while attending a recent seminar, officials were advised to be prepared for a 20% increase in Medicaid and 15% increase in the AFDC program. He requested the Budget Director to further comment on costs involved. Budget Director, Cam McAbee, presented following figures: MEDICAID Estimated County Cost - FY 1991-92 $1,927,192 The County cost of Medicaid increased 15.6% or $259,914 between FY 1990-91 and FY 1991-92. If the County cost of Medicaid increases 20% between FY 1991-92 and FY 1992-93, the FY 1992-93 amount would be $2,312,630 representing an increase of $385,438. AFDC County Cost of AFDC in FY 1991-92 $1,129,043 The County cost of AFDC increased 3.3% or $36,275 between FY 1990-91 and FY 1991-92. If the County cost of AFDC would increase 15% between FY 1991-92 and FY 1992-93, the FY 1992-93 amount would be $1,298,399 representing an increase of $169,356. () commissioner Barfield expressed concern for the eligibility criteria used in determining whether a client receives public assistance. He cited an example of abuse at the Department of Social Services by an individual from New York State, who was able to obtain assistance, and stated these types of abuse should not occur. '('~';'.{>- .-f:~~i' ~ '. 1'~;'~~ i MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 770 . County Manager O'Neal commented on the Work Session scheduled with the Department of Social Services on January 21, 1992, and recommended discussing this incidence with the Director. Commissioner Barfield commented 'the success of the Work Program in Florida" which is State funded, and explained that this program requires clients to work in order to receive assistance. In North Carolina, the State recei ves funds from the federal government; therefore, the State must comply to federal regulations. He, again, reiterated the importance of providing regulations that will assist clients to work out of the system through jobs with the necessary Medicaid benefits, day care, and other programs provided until that recipient can become self- sufficient. A lengthy discussion was held on where to begin to correct the public assistance program on the federal and state level. County Manager O'Neal recommended utilizing the services of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners and the National Association of Counties to promote a change in federal regulations governing public assistance. commissioner Sutton recommended preparing a resolution requesting steps to be taken to curb abuse of the system with this resolution being forwarded to the U. S. Congress. Vice-Chairman Greer stated the system must be changed because local governments cannot continue to fund 17.3% lncreases year after year. County Manager O'Neal stated the County's contribution to DSS programs has increased from $3,732,000 in FY 1986-87 to an estimated $7,300,000 in FY 1991-92. . Motion: After further discussion, Commissioner Retchin MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to direct the County Manager to prepare a resolution expressing concern for abuse of the welfare system and authorize the Chairman to execute the document. The resolution is to be forward to the N. C. Association of County Commissioners, National Association of Counties, N. C. Congressional Delegation and Jack Kemp. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. A copy of the resolution is hereby incorporated as a part of the minutes and is contained in Exhibit Book XIX, Page 26. Shifts of Programs and Legislative Actions that Impact on the County Government Health Department County Manager O'Neal presented the programs, services and/or requirements that local health departments with little or no January 1, 1986: following list of have been added to State funding .since . 1. HIV/AIDS Programs & Regulations. 2. Environmental Health Management Entity Program. 3. Child day care inspections increased by the State. 4. State requirement for local health departments to assist with collection of annual fees from restaurants. 5. Dangerous dog law. 6. New Immunization requirements. 7. Monitoring of tuberculosis cases. 8. Kindergarten health assessments. 9. Investigate penicillin resistant Gonorrhea cases. Courts Related Activities: Deputy County Manager Gornto commented on counties being required to provide facilities for the courts as well as court- related personnel and presented the following list of responsibilities imposed by the State: ~ ( f MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 77.1,. 1. One additional Superior Court Judge and one new District Court Judge in FY 1991. 2. One new Assistant District Attorney in FY 1991. 3. One new Deputy Clerk position in the Clerk of Courts' Office in FY 1991 and another new Deputy Clerk position anticipated in FY 1992. 4. Two additional positions in the Juvenile Court Counselor's Office in FY 1992 with a psychologist anticipated in FY 1992. () 5. six new positions in Adult Probation in FY 1991. 6. Two new positions in the Guardian Ad Litem Program in FY 1990. 7. One new Magistrate in FY 1991. The addition of these new positions required the County to lease new or additional office space. The space requirements for Adult Probation necessitated the leasing of approximately 4,500 square feet at an annual cost of $36,000. The additional Guardian Ad Litem personnel required expansion of office space at an additional cost of $3,480, and in many instances County crews remodeled existing space to accommodate the court related acti vi ties. Al though court costs have been increased by the General Assembly during this period, the increases have been applied to Court employees' salaries and other State costs, without an increase in the facilities fee paid to counties. Further discussion was held on court-related costs continuing to increase, and the need for the State to raise the facilities fee. 'commissioner Sutton recommended a review of space being currently used in the Courthouse and stated possibly this space could be better utilized. He also recommended a review of existing space in the Library. () Deputy County Manager Gornto commented on the Courthouse not being a desirable facility for office space and stated when the Courthouse was renovated, a decision was made not to convert this building back into small offices, but to preserve it as a historical structure. BREAK Chairman Mathews called for a break from 1:48 P.M. until 2:05 P.M. DISCUSSION OF STATE BUDGET AND LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES THAT IMPACT UPON THE COUNTY'S BUDGET Budget Director, Cam McAbee, presented the following items that impact on the County's budget: 1991 State Legislative Activities 1. The General Assembly elected to maintain local government reimbursements and state-shared taxes at the 1990-91 level. o 2. Funding of federal match requirements for Clean, Water Revolving Loan & Grant Fund from the counties' beer and wine tax, and the cities' utility franchise tax. 3. Fund the Local Government Commission from Intangibles Tax. 4. State agencies are to request refunds of local sales taxes paid on state purchases. 5. Double the Deed Stamp Tax to $2 per $1,000 on real estate transfers with increase proceeds going to the State's general \ -.., - MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10', 1992 PAGE 772 fund. Counties will collect the tax and may retain a portion to offset the cost of collection. . Expenditure Reductions: 1. Complete phase out of state appropriations for school energy costs, reduction in state-funded positions, reduce text book allotments, and reduce school transportation costs. 2. Less significant reductions in funding to Community Colleges. 3. Counties' share of Medicaid and AFT payments increased October 1, 1991. Non-Supplanting: 1. When additional funding was approved for DSS protective services, a non-supplanting clause was included so state funds could not supplant any local or federal funds previously budgeted for child protective services. 2. Local Health Departments are County appropriations for maternal or health promotions services appropriations for these programs. not permitted to reduce and child health services as a result of state . Discussion was held on collecting the Deed stamp Tax and reimbursement for administering the collection of the tax. Finance Director Atkinson stated no guidelines were presented for establishing the collection fee; therefore, the County is charging a 15% maximum collection fee until the state presents specific instructions. The fee presently covers the County's cost for collection of the tax. DISCUSSION OF FUNDING REQUEST FOR SCHOOLS County Manager O'Neal stated the General statutes require that school budgets be presented to local governments by May 15 of each year; however, after discussion with Superintendent NcNeel, the school budget will be presented by April 15. He commented on an anticipated increase in this year's funding request and stated this issue will have to be addressed. Commissioner sutton expressed concern for the amount of funds received by the schools with funding of $3,500 per student, out which New Hanover County funds $900 per student, and stated he is puzzled as to why the schools cannot operate on this amount of money. commissioner Barfield commented on past and present funding allocations for the schools and expressed concern for increased budget requests each year. He stated New Hanover County is facing its most difficult budget year, and if the schools are in such dire need, they should cut back on administration and use these funds for educational needs. . After discussion of the continuing increase of funding allocations to schools, Staff was directed to request the school administration to present a more detailed explanation of school expenditures when submitting the 1992-93 budget in order to better understand where funds are being expended. DISCUSSION OF FUNDING REQUEST FOR CAPE FEAR COMMUNITY COLLEGE County Manager O'Neal stated Cape Fear Community College will present its budget request by April 15, 1992. The current funding allocation is $953,000. DISCUSSION OF MEDICAL INSURANCE Finance Director Atkinson stated only one quarter.ly report has been received; therefore, he cannot project whether the medical j ( I ! MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 773 insurance premium will increase. County Manager O'Neal stated an option to consider is restructuring of the deductible; however, this decision will be made when figures become available. COMPARISON OF DEBT SERVICE Budget Director, Cam McAbee, presented a detailed report on Debt Service and Debt Service on Installment Debt. Also, graphs of New Hanover County real property, property values from 1983-1990, Room Occupancy Tax Fund Revenues, Special Fire District Revenues, Requested Capital projects, and capital projects in Progress were presented. () Discussion of 911 surcharge Discussion was held on the 911 Surcharge. Commissioner Barfield inquired as to when the surcharge will be removed and recommended eliminating this charge after purchase of the necessary equipment. Vice-Chairman Greer concurred with this recommendation. Deputy County Manager Gornto stated all telephone subscribers countywide are paying the surcharge; however, by having the ability to pay some of the present 911 costs out of the new charge, it reduces the need to increase the tax rate. County Manager O'Neal stated if Staff finds that the 911 Center equipment can be maintained and operated on less than $.50, then the surcharge can be reduced; however, he would not recommend eliminating the surcharge in the future. DISCUSSION OF INCREASE COSTS FOR OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF NEW FACILITIES County Manager O'Neal commented on the opening of the newly expanded Museum, Senior Center, and Myrtle Grove Branch Library stating additional personnel and operating costs will be incurred. () commissioner Sutton commented on fees collected at the entrance to the Museum and expressed concern for these funds being divided between the Museum Foundation and New Hanover County. He requested Staff to consider placing fees collected directly into the general fund with disbursements made based upon needs. DISCUSSION OF PENDING ITEMS County Manager O'Neal commented on the following items: 1. Court Rulinq on the Oqden-New Hanover Rescue Squad: If the court renders a decision that EMS County employees will have to be paid overtime for volunteering their hours of service to the rescue squad, additional funds may have to be allocated for the provision of paramedic services. 2. Blue Cross Blue Shield Provider Number: Director Atkinson stated BCBS is still reviewing the request for a provider number. After further discussion, commissioner Sutton volunteered to work on this request. 3. Burn pit - New Hanover International Airport: To date the County, U. S. Corps of Engineers, City of Wilmington, and Cape Fear community College have expended $450,000. The Environmental Protection Agency is in the monitoring process; therefore, no firm figures have been established for cleaning up the site. () 4. U. S. Geoloqical Survey Ground Water Study: The County is in the process of applying for the grant, and if awarded, a County funding match will be required. DISCUSSION OF DECREASE IN THE GROWTH OF THE TAX BASE Budget Director, earn McAbee, commented on a decrease in the growth of the tax base and stated if expenditures continue to grow for the provision of services and programs, and the tax base l ~ ,.., ..f ,,~.~ ,-. MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 774 decreases, this could become a problem. Charts were presented comparing expenditure growth versus the growth of the tax base. DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED ANIMAL CONTROL CENTER Deputy County Manager Gornto commented on the proposed $2.5 million Animal Control Facility and stated after further review, the Animal Control Board feels the facility can be constructed for $1.5 million dollars. . Vice-Chairman Greer commented on the present facility being inadequate and stated the Board of Health is in favor of budgeting architecture fees in the 1992-93 Budget. commissioner sutton asked if the Department could construct the new facility? stated the General statutes do not allow capital projects that exceed $75,000. Property Man9gement County Att9rney Pope counties t6 contract After discussion of the cost of a new Animal Control Facility, Commissioner sutton stated if the Board decides to move forward with construction of a new facility, this project would be ideal for review by a Building Committee to ensure the best price for the jOb. . Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to direct staff to prepare a recommendation for establishment of a Building Committee to review capital projects and direct staff to investigate the "design build" method for the proposed Animal Control Facility. Discussion was held on recent action by the Board of Health to no longer accept animals from other counties. Commissioner Sutton concurred with this action and stated it is most unfortunate that surrounding counties do not pay for services rendered by County agencies. BREAK Chairman Mathews called for a break from 3:25 P.M. until 3:40 P.M. DISCUSSION OF MILITARY CUT-OFF BRANCH LIBRARY County Manager O'Neal stated a group of residents from Landfall have made an offer to raise funds to pay for design work, architectural/engineering fees; and the first two years of interest and debt payments for the construction of a branch library on Military Cut-off Road. This offer has been made to encourage the County to move forward with the construction project. commissioner Barfield expressed concern for considering an additional capital project when the County is in the process of downsizing County government. Commissioner Retchin commented on discussion with the County M~nager for preparation of a 5-Year Capital Budget and recommended deferring construction of a branch library on Military Cut-Off Road until a schedule has been developed. . commissioner sutton expressed concern for discouraging residents who have made such a generous offer and recommended responding in a posi ti ve manner. He also requested Staff to consider using the same plan designed for the Myrtle Grove Branch Library. Consensus: After further discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to direct the County Manager to respond to Mr. Jim Wright expressing appreciation for the generous offer by the residents of Landfall and advising him that due to current budget constraints for FY 1992-93, it is not appropriate to move forward with the project; however, the Board is interested in pursuing this offer at the beginning of the next fiscal year, either in July or August. ~ ( MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 775 Discussion was held on expiration of the College Square Branch Library lease and relocation of this branch. Vice-Chairman Greer recommended relocating the College Square Branch Library to Plaza East which would be less costly and a convenient location for the citizens of this area. Staff was instructed to investigate this matter. DISCUSSION OF PARKS BOND REFERENDUM Deputy County Manger Gornto stated the County has purchased $900,000 of land for parks with additional sites being investigated. Also, a request for proposals is being prepared for development of th~ Ogden Park site. FINANCIAL STATUS REPORT Finance Director Atkinson presented the following Interim Financial Status Report as of December 31, 1991: Report: Actual expenditures at December 31 amounted to 41% when compared to the budget. This appears to indicate slower spending in the General Fund than in the past, which can be attributed to downsizing. Vacant positions have not been filled as quickly and some positions have been eliminated creating a salary lag. The salary lag decreases the County's cost for retirement, Blue Cross Blue Shield, dental insurance, and FICA. with these factors considered, expenditures will help to cover shortfalls in revenue due to the interest earning; therefore, the projected revenues and expenditures (in thousands) at June 30, 1992 is as follows: BUDGET ACTUAL Revenues Expenditures $83,163 83,163 $81,216 79,359 Revenues over expenditures 1,859 -0- The County's fund balance is predicted to increase by approximately $2,000,000. with a budget of $83,000,000, the unappropriated fund balance needs to be approximately $17,500,000. If projections hold, the unappropriated fund balance will be $10,400,000. The major hurtle to overcome in rebuilding the fund balance is the money advanced to the Airport for the new terminal. At June 30, 1992, the County has approximately $3,500,000 outstanding on this project; however, it appears that the FY 1992- 93 Budget will not require allocations from the fund balance. " , commissioner Sutton commented on EMS collections and inquired as to the County's percentage of collections. Finance Director Atkinson stated EMS is within budget and will be over the budgeted figure for collections this year; however, the Paralegal has been extremely busy with a number of different collection items and has not been able to solely concentrate on EMS collections. The Legal Department is now in the process of hiring a Clerk, which will allow the Paralegal to focus on this item. Commissioner Sutton emphasized the importance of improving the collections percentage and recommended considering the possibility of hiring a collection agency. commissioner Sutton inquired as to whether a monthly budget report can be prepared in order to know if the County's revenues and expenditures are meeting the budgeted figures. Finance Director Atkinson stated due to varying time schedules in debt service, tax collection cycles and other items, it would be difficult to prepare this type of statement; however, he will further study and review this request. DISCUSSION OF ALTERNATE SOURCES OF REVENUE County Manager O'Neal presented the following alternate sources of revenues which would require legislative action for implementation: , l ~ () () () . . . ~ '!r'T MiNUTES OF BUDGET WORK 'SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 776 Estimated Revenue Land Transfer Tax (1%) $3,000,000 Prepared Food & Beverage Tax (1%) $1,000,000 Increase in Room Occupancy Tax (3%) $1,360,000 Assistant County Manager, Dave Weaver, presented a status report on the Water & Sewer Advisory Committee which has been studying revenue options for expansion of the Sewer System. He stated Dr. Woody Hall, a professor at the UNC-W School of Business, has volunteered to prepare a modeling effort to correlate revenue generation with funds needed to expand the Sewer System to different areas. The projected time for completion of the study will be approximately five months. The model will research combining various revenue sources, such as a land transfer tax at 1/4-1/2% (instead of 1% as previously discussed) coupled with an increase in user fees. Also, the model will consider development of an assessment fee. Along with revenue sources, the model will list and compare options available for expanding the system such as: (1) continuing the present process of build~ng in phases; or (2) focusing on constructing trunk lines allowing'new development to hook on to the trunk lines with these monies being used to serve existing development. Discussion was held on the prepared food and beverage tax. Commissioner Retchin stated the restaurant industry would have supported the tax contingent upon funds being utilized for tourism. Discussion was held on the beach erosion fund. Commissioner Sutton inquired as to the amount of money in this fund, and if this fund is currently over funded? Finance Director Atkinson stated the balance of the fund is $4.5 million; however, the question to be answered is whether the federal government will continue to fund beach renourishment. If the County was assured of continued federal funding, the account would be over funded at the present time; however, if federal funds were reduced or eliminated, the funds would be needed for beach renourishment. Discussion was held on a state lottery. Commissioner Retchin stated the General Assembly will probably vote for a lottery and if so, hopefully, a portion of these funds will be utilized to replace state reimbursements now received. Commissioner Barfield commented on funding sources discussed and recommended placing these options on the ballot to allow the citizens to decide what revenue sources would be acceptable. Consensus: After discussion of State law governing the placement of items on a ballot, the County Attorney was requested to research this issue and forward a recommendation to the Board. BREAK FOR DINNER Chairman Mathews called for a dinner break from 5:00 P.M. until 6:00 P.M. PRESENTATION OF OPTIONS FOR BUDGET CUTS County Manager O'Neal presented the following options for budget cuts: 1. Increase salary lags in departments. Consensus: After discussion of salary lags being conservative budgeting, it was the consensus of the Board to direct Staff not to use this option. 2. Recommend Southeastern Center contract Detoxification Center. j ( MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 777 Consensus: After discussion of the lack of funds to hire personnel to operate the Detoxification Center, it was the consensus of the Board for the Southeastern Center Board to pursue contracting with New Hanover Regional Medical Center for operation of the. Detoxification Center. Commissioner Barfield stated the Southeastern Center Board will address this issue, and Commissioner Sutton agreed to discuss this matter with the Hospital Board of Trustees. 3. continue reviewing hours of facilities to determine if cost savings can be achieved by alternate schedules. () Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to direct Staff to continue to review the hours of facilities and alternate schedules. 4. continue reviewing County operations to determine where contracting for the service would be cost effective. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board for Staff to continue to review where it would be cost effective to contract for County services. 5. Eliminate County Fun Day at a cost of $12,500. Discussion was held on presenting service awards at the County Fun day. Deputy County Manager Gornto stated employees have recommended the presentation of service awards by the Commissioners at regularly scheduled meetings. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to continue to have County Fun Day with Staff directed to reduce the cost as much as possible and also prepare a recommendation for presentation of service awards by the County commissioners at regular meetings. n 6. Eliminate military retirement benefit effective July 1, 1992. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to eliminate the military retirement benefit effective July 1, 1992. 7. Eliminate or contract the HOP Program. Consensus: After discussion of early diagnosis of medical problems being cost effective, it was the consensus of the Board to direct the Human Resources Director to continue to work with the Corporate Health Center for contracting this service. 8. Eliminate volunteer receptions funded by County dollars. Consensus: After discussion of the money saved and valuable services rendered by volunteers, it was the consensus of the Board to continue funding of volunteer receptions. 9. Eliminate newsletters funded by County dollars except for the County Connection. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to continue the County Connection as published and limit other publications to twice a year. () 10. Eliminate "Keep America Beautiful" as a separate agency funded by the general fund and incorporate the program into the Environmental Management Department. Consensus: After discussion of the need to consolidate these agencies, it was the consensus of the Board to incorporate this agency into the Environmental Management Department with the present Advisory Board continuing to function. ~ . . . ~ ~ t ~ , MiNUTES OF BUDGET WORK-SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 778 11. Fund Forestry Service from the Fire Service District. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to direct commissioner Barfield to discuss this item with the Board of Fire Commissioners before approving funding for the Forestry Service from the Fire Service District. 12. Transfer operation of Juvenile Services Center to the State. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to transfer the operation of the Juvenile Services Center to the State. 13. Eliminate beach community funding in the amount of $150,000. Consensus: After discussion of funding requests and services provided by the beaches, it was the consensus of the Board to reduce funding to the beach communities by 20% over a period of five years. 14. Request the Bar Association to make a contribution toward the operating costs of the Law Library in the Judicial Building. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to request the New Hanover County Bar Association to contribute to the operation of the Law Library in the Judicial Building. 15. Prepare gift catalogue of specific items or capital pro- jects to provide an opportunity for citizens to donate to projects of their choice. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to publish a brochure for one year and then determine if this type of publication is beneficial. 16. Park impact fees. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board not to impose park impact fees. 17. Charge for table reservations at parks as long as administrative costs do not exceed revenue. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to request the Parks & Recreation Advisory Board to prepare a recommendation on charges for table reservations, if they are in favor of the idea. 18. Charge non-county citizens for using County facilities. Consensus: After discussion, it was the consensus of the Board to direct Staff to develop a policy establishing charges to non-county citizens for use of County facilities. 19. Charge individuals that are using modem hookups to access information from the Register of Deeds Office and Tax Office if they would normally pay to receive the information, or if there is increased cost to the County for the manner in which the information is obtained. Consensus: It was the consensus of the Board to direct Staff to charge individuals for accessing information from the Register of Deeds Office and Tax Office as recommended by the County Manager. DISCUSSION OF NEW OUTSIDE AGENCY FUNDING REQUESTS County Manager O'Neal requested direction from the Board on responding to new outside agency funding requests. ~ ( I / !~ MINUTES OF BUDGET WORK SESSION, JANUARY 10, 1992 PAGE 77.9. Consensus: After discussion of budget constraints, it was the consensus of the Board not to accept funding requests from new outside agencies. DISCUSSION OF THE BUDGETARY PROCESS County Manager O'Neal stated until departmental budget requests have been received, it is not possible to ascertain if additional positions or programs will have to be eliminated in order to prepare the 1992-93 Budget without increasing the tax rate. The Commissioners will be informed as the budgetary process continues to develop, and additional meetings may have to be scheduled. () commissioner Retchin requested a schedule of budget hearings for County Departments so the Commissioners can attend budget hearings if they so desire. commissioner sutton commented on funding for outside agencies and recommended developing a policy that will require these agencies to become self-sufficient. For example, the Public Radio should raise funds through donations with no County funding. Chairman Retchin stated, perhaps, the Board would like to begin cutting back on funding to outside agencies with a 20% reduction per year. Consensus: After discussion of the need to thoroughly review funding requests for outside agencies, it was the consensus of the Board to schedule a Work Session on March 9, 1992, for this purpose. EXECUTIVE SESSION Motion: Commissioner sutton MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Retchin to convene from Regular Session to Executive Session for discussion of a personnel matter. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. () Chairman Mathews convened to Executive Session at 8:40 P.M. Motion: Commissioner Sutton MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Retchin to reconvene to Regular Session. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews reconvened to Regular Session at 8:45 P.M. ADJOURNMENT Motion: Commissioner Barfield MOVED, SECONDED by Commissioner Sutton to adjourn. Upon vote, the MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY. Chairman Mathews expressed appreciation to Staff for excellent presentations and adjourned the meeting at 8:47 P.M. ~e ctfully S~b itted, '. --7 . v.)? Lu' F. Harrell Clerk to the Board' Ie)